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ARCHIVES	Wednesday, 3 January 2007	THE MYANMAR TIMES

While fulfilling the basic needs of the people, the Tatmadaw government is implementing the seven-step Road Map National Convention, the first step of the Road Map, will be completed soon

Nay Pyi Taw, 2 Jan- The following is a translation of the address delivered by Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye at the ceremony to mark the conclusion of the Fourth Intake of the Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science.

I am going to give you some necessary directives in all seriousness at this ceremony to mark the conclusion of the Fourth Intake of the Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science.

The DSINPS is running BSc degree courses for Nursing (formal), Nursing (bridge), Pharmacy, Paramedical Science (Diagnosis), Paramedical Science (X-ray) and Paramedical Science (Physical treatment) and MSc (Nursing).

As you have already completed your specific courses and the military science course, you will be assigned in the national Tatmadaw that has been safeguarding Our Three Main National Causes. Qualified persons will be permitted to attend the MSc (Nursing). The outstanding ones will get opportunities to attend institutions at home or abroad to obtain the PhD (Nursing).

Nursing is an important task in the health sector. It is the task only the persons imbued with such extra qualifications as kindness and sympathy, sacrificing spirit, goodwill, noble mind and endurance can carry out. Nursing includes disease prevention, health education dissemination, disease control, treatment and rehabilitation. Goodwill and kindness are greatly effective mental therapies. In some cases, a disease-free person becomes a patient only because of his extreme obsession with illness. Such mentally ill patients should be cured with mental therapies. All the acts and words of a nurse who wins the trust, respect, reliance and love of the patients are effective therapies. Hence, nursing is an essential part of the health sector.

As regards pharmacy, whether it may be a western medicine or traditional medicine, technicians are needed in compounding or using it. Pharmacists should know the potencies as well as the side effects of chemical agents and natural elements in compounding them. They must also apprehend the correct amount and course of each and every medicine in using it and its supplements. At present, some drugs illegally entering into the country are harmful. You will have to protect the people with medicine production science and medical potency inspection technologies you have already learnt.

The science of diagnosis and X-ray are the subjects to highlight the values of the saying, which goes, There is medicine only when the cause of illness is known. In treating a patient, diagnosis should be conducted from all angles. If not, it will be a waste of time and money and at worst, might kill the patient, if wrong drugs and therapies are used for a particular disease.

Physical treatment is required for the persons who become disabled due to battle wounds. It is also needed in curing patients suffering from bulbous growth on bone, arthritics, stroke etc. Physical treatment will also cater for children with disability from birth. It is a science that can treat the disabled to stand on their own feet without relying on others. Hence, every country gives priority to the science.

You have already completed platoon commander level military science in addition to university level arts and science and medical science. You are required to constantly enhance your knowledge and skill in battlefield technology, military leadership, special reinforcements, general staff, military security, administration and military law. You will have to attend infantry platoon commander course, infantry company commander course and infantry battalion commander course step by step.

You comerades side by side with army, navy and air forces must be able to unconditionally protect land, water and air territories of the State. Whenever necessary, you must command and participate in battles and you are to try to become efficient Tatmadaw memebers who are able to safeguard Our Three Main National Causes at risk to your lives.

To become good Tatmadaw members, you must have five fundamental characteristics, morale, discipline, loyalty, unity and the three capabiliteis. You must firmly keep the military code of conduct in the fore. You will also have to hand down the 12 fine traditions of the Tatmadaw. Morever, you must be bound by a code of ethics of medical services.

As a patriotic Tatmadaw, we have been safegurarding the State and the people in time of emergencies like near-collapse of the nation. Now again, the Tatmadaw is shouldering State duties to transform the nation into a new, modern developed one in accord with the people's desire. For the emergence of a discipline-flourishing democracy, measures are being taken to ensure peace and stability of the State, the rule of law, public food security and high education of the people by laying down the 12 State objectives. Endeavours for pecace and stability of the State led to the return of 17 national race armed groups to the legal fold. And as a result, respective regions have enjoyed fruits of development. Likewise, the State is taking measures for the reduction of crime and corruption. As the government is governing the nation in accord with the existing laws, anyone who is a government employee or an ordinary civilian must be dealt with according to law if he commits a crime.

As regards the economy, the State has been implementing short- and long-term projects for cumulative development of GDP. Therefore, although per capita income was only K 1,940 in 1988-89 when the Tatmadaw started to assume the duty of the State, it increased to K 221,217 at the end of March 2006 after the third five-year short-term project (2001-2006) had completed.

Economic infrastructures such as dams, reservoirs, roads, bridges and power generating facilites have been built one after another. Similarly, social infrastructures like schools, universites and hospitals have been opened in all the 24 special regions. The government is also making arragements to explore more natural gas deposits and produce bio-fuel in order to cope with the problem of lack of global energy.

For food secuity of the people, efforts are being made to grow more rice so as to be able to feed a population up to 100 million. And now the State has produced 1,500 million baskets of paddy per year. Plans are under way to produce 2,000 million baskets of paddy per year. At the same time, to fulfil the need of edible oil, over 200,000 acres of oil palms have been grown against the target of 500,000 acres, and oil palm plantations are producing edible oil.

While fulfilling the basic needs of the people, the Tatmadaw government is implementing the seven-step Road Map of the State. And the Natoinal Convention, the first step of the Road Map, will be completed soon. So, you comerades are urged to participate in the successful implementation of the Road Map in cooperation with the people.

I will draw a conclustion that you are the young generation of the Tatmadaw who will safeguard Our Three Main National Causes by risking your lives. Therefore, you are to safeguard Our Three Main National Causes with Union Spirit, to hand down the 12 fine traditions of the Tatmadaw as a good legacy, to try to become nurses who are armed with physical and mental abilities, to try to become patriotic Tatmadaw members who possess the five fundamental characeristics, to serve the interest of the people by providing them with health care wherever you are posted to, and to participate in the successful implementation of the Road Map in cooperation with the people.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye addresses graduation parade of Fourth Intake of Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science

Nay Pyi Taw, 2 Jan - The Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science held the graduation parade of its 4th Intake at the parade ground of Defence Services Medical Academy of Yangon at 7 am toady, with an address by Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye.

Also present on the occasion were Member of State Peace and Development Council General Thura Shwe Mann of the Ministry of Defence, Secretary-1 of SPDC Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein, Members of SPDC Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Quartermaster-General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo, Chief of Armed Forces Training Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein, Lt-Gen Myint Swe of the Ministry of Defence, Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing, Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Chairman of Yangon Division PDC Commander Brig-Gen Hla Htay Win, the ministers, Military Appointment-General Maj-Gen Hsan Hsint, Judge Advocate-General Maj-Gen Soe Maung, Inspector-General of Defence Services Maj-Gen Thein Htaik, senior military officers and directors of the Ministry of Defence, Rector of DSMA Brig-Gen Yar Pyae, Rector of the Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science Col Tho Htein and military officers, guests, graduating cadets and their parents.

During the ceremony, Vice-Senior General Maung Aye took the salute of cadet companies and inspected them. They later marched past Vice-Senior General Maung Aye.

Next, Vice-Senior General Maung Aye presented the best cadet award to No 822 cadet Maung Maung Oo, the excellent training award to No 823 cadet Tet Nay Win and the excellent studies award to No 822 cadet Maung Maung Oo.

At the reception hall of DSMA, Vice-Senior General Maung Aye met with two outstanding cadets and their parents and gave advice to them.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and wife Daw Mya Mya San attend graduation dinner of Fourth Intake of Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science

Nay Pyi Taw, 2 Jan - The graduation dinner of Fourth Intake of Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science was held at the convocation hall of Defence Services Medical Academy, Yangon this evening, attended by Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and wife Daw Mya Mya San.

Also present on the occasion were Member of SPDC General Thura Shwe Mann of the Ministry of Defence and wife Daw Khin Lay Thet, Secretary-1 of SPDC Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein and wife Daw Khin Khin Win, Members of SPDC Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Quartermaster-General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo and Chief of Armed Forces Training Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Vice-Admiral Soe Thein, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Lt-Gen Myat Hein, Lt-Gen Myint Swe of the Ministry of Defence, Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing and Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Chairman of Yangon Division PDC Commander Brig-Gen Hla Htay Win, the ministers, deputy ministers, senior military officers, Chairman of Yangon City Development Committee Mayor Brig-Gen Aung Thein Lin and their wives, the Director-General of SPDC Office, departmental heads, senior military officers from Mingaladon Station, the rector of Defence Services Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Science and advisers, professors, faculty members, graduating cadets and their families.

Next, Myawady music troupe and artistes of Myanmar Music Asiayon performed dances and songs after the dinner.

Government grants amnesty to 2,831 prisoners in hailing 59th Anniversary Independence Day

Nay Pyi Taw, 3 Jan � The State Peace and Development Council has been building a peaceful, modern and developed discipline-flourishing democratic state with the cooperation and participation of the national people.

To ensure peace and stability of the State and the rule of law, the government has taken actions against the persons, who violated the existing laws, in accord with the law. However, the government has been providing material assistance and spiritual encouragement to the prisoners to take part in nation-building tasks in one way or another as a new strength.

Today, the government granted amnesty to 2,831 prisoners whose moral behaviour and spiritual values have improved and changed for the better in enabling them to participate in the national development undertakings as a new force and in hailing the 59th Anniversary Independence Day that falls on 4 January 2007.

The State Peace and Development Council granted amnesty to 3,937 prisoners on 18 November 2004, 5,311 on 25 November, 5,070 on 12 December, 5,588 on 3 January 2005 and 410 on 5 July. As the government released 2,831 prisoners today, it has already granted amnesty to 23,147 prisoners.

Yangon, 2 Jan�Myanma Radio and Television will telecast live the programmes featuring the State Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony to mark the 59th Anniversary Independence Day from 6.45 am on 4 January 2007 from the square in front of the Nay Pyi Taw City Hall.

Yangon, 2 Jan - The following is a translation of proposals on laying down detailed basic principles for chapter �General Provisions� to be included in drafting the State Constitution presented by the Delegate Group of State Service Personnel at the Plenary Session of the National Convention held at Pyidaungsu Hall of Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division, on 29-12-2006.

I am U Than Tun of the delegate group of State service personnel of Attorney-General's Office. I will present the chapter General Provisions.

A Constitution is the main law that reflects a nation's history and portrays the structure of that nation. Moreover, the Constitution is the main pillar of the laws of a nation stipulating the sharing of the three branches of power the legislative power, the executive power and the judicial power and the political and economic system. Hence all the laws of a nation should be in conformity with the Constitution. In the 1974 Constitution of our nation and constitutions of some nations, it is stated that the Constitution is the basic law of laws of the State. Hence, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

Fundamental principles to be included in formulating the Constitution have already been laid down by the plenary session of the National Convention on 16 September 1993. The 1947 Constitution as well as the 1947 Constitution prescribed Myanmar as the official language. Myanmar language is widely used in various parts of the nation.

The fundamental principle has been laid down with the purpose of ensuring uniformity and clarity in communications between the people and the government institutions, and among the government institutions, without any controversy.

Concerning the matter, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

The 1974 Constitution of Myanmar and constitutions of world nations prescribe that the State fundamental principles are the guidelines to be followed by the legislative Hluttaws in enacting laws and interpreting provisions of the State Constitution and of other laws.

(3) Hence, the detailed basic principle The State fundamental principles are the guidelines to be followed by the legislative Hluttaws in enacting laws and interpreting provisions of the State Constitution and of other laws should be adopted.

Only the Constitution written in Myanmar language will be adopted and promulgated. Afterwards, the Constitution may be translated into English and other languages as necessary. Although the Constitution may be translated into various languages, only the Constitution written in Myanmar language will be adopted and promulgated. Hence, if there arises a matter to interpret a provision it will be based on Myanmar text.

(4) Interpretation of the preamble, articles, clauses, words and expressions contained in this Constitution shall be based only on Myanmar text.

After adopting and promulgating the Constitution, there may be a need to interpret the exact meaning of an expression in practically implementing the Constitution.

The sub-section 3, section 222 of the 1947 Constitution prescribed, Save where a contrary intention appears, the provisions of the Burma General Clauses Act shall extend to the interpretation and application of this Constitution.

The Clause (a) of Article 200 of the 1974 Constitution also prescribed, In interpreting the expressions contained in this Constitution, reference shall be made to the Interpretation Law promulgated by the Revolutionary Council of the Union of Burma.

As regards the matter, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(5) Interpretation of the expressions of this Constitution shall be referred to the existing Interpretation of Expressions Law.

Archives and records are kept safely for long-term existence. Likewise, the Myanmar manuscript of the Constitution, that has been adopted and promulgated through a referendum, should be enrolled for record in the National Archives. The following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(6) A Myanmar manuscript of this Constitution shall be enrolled for record in the National Archives. The manuscript shall be conclusive evidence of the provisions of this Constitution.

Concerning the national economic the following fundamental principle has been laid down.

The State permits all economic forces such as the State itself, regional organizations, cooperative organizations, joint-venture organizations and private concerns, etc. to take part in economic activities for the development of the national economy.

Now, the nation has seen many economic enterprises that are jointly run with the government based on mutual interest, or internal or external organizations or persons are running under the terms and conditions stipulated by the State. After the State Constitution comes into force, there will emerge economic enterprises the Union government will have to run solely, and economic enterprises that Region government or State government will have to run in accord with the provisions of the State Constitution. And there may arise a situation for which a Region or State government is to be vested with the right to run one of the economic enterprises which the Union government has to run solely, in the interests of the State. Moreover, there may arise situations for which a cooperative society or an economic organization or a person may enjoy the right to run such economic enterprises.

We would like to discuss that the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

to run any of economic enterprises, which are prescribed to be operated solely by the Union Government, through a joint-venture system with the Union Government or under agreements.

There have been many treaties and agreements the Government of the Union of Myanmar ratified after regaining independence with the governments of other countries. Also in the time of the State Peace and Development Council, the government has ratified treaties and agreements with the governments of many other countries including ASEAN nations. In this regard, the Union of Myanmar will have to honour the legitimate obligations arising out of any treaties or agreements which have been in force before the commencement of this Constitution between the Government of Myanmar and the Government of any other State provided that these countries honour any reciprocal obligations towards the Union of Myanmar. It is found that the 1947 Constitution of our country and the State constitutions of many other countries carry similar provisions.

(8) The Union of Myanmar shall honour all legitimate obligations arising out of any treaties or agreements which before the commencement of this Constitution were in force between the Government of Myanmar and the Government of any other State, provided that such other State honours any reciprocal obligations towards the Union of Myanmar.

The Union of Republic of Myanmar that will come into existence after this Constitution comes into force should have the right to sue and may be sued by the name of the Union of Republic of Myanmar. The 1947 Constitution of our country and the State constitutions of some countries prescribe similar provisions.

As regards the matter, we are in favour of adopting the following detailed basic principle.

(9) (1) Any proceedings relating to contracts or liabilities which might have been brought against the Government of the Union of Myanmar before this Constitution comes into force, may be brought against the Union Government.

(2) The Union of Republic of Myanmar may sue and may be sued by the name of the Union of Republic of Myanmar.

Some fundamental principles the National Convention has adopted include matters on formation of the Constitutional Tribunal and functions of the Constitutional Tribunal. Concerning the Constitutional Tribunal, the following detailed basic principles should be adopted.

(10) The Constitutional Tribunal shall consist of nine members including the chairman. The President, the Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall select three members each who meet the following requirements from among Hluttaw members or non-Hluttaw members:

(b) person who possesses qualifications set for a Pyithu Hluttaw, except restriction on age,

(c) person who possesses qualifications set for the Union Chief Justice and a Union Supreme Court Judge except restriction on age,

11. The list of three members each nominated by the President, the Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw, and a member nominated for chairmanship of Constitutional Tribunal among the nine members shall be submitted to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw for its approval.

12. The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall have no right to reject the persons nominated for members of the Constitutional Tribunal by the President unless it can prove the members disqualified.

13. The President may, in accord with the provisions of the State Constitution, have the right to nominate new members for the seats of Constitutional Tribunal that are still vacant due to failure to obtain agreement of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

14. The President shall appoint the chairman and members of Constitutional Tribunal approved by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

Now, explanation will be made on the term of the Constitutional Tribunal. A detailed basic principle has been adopted that the term of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall be five years. The term of the Constitutional Tribunal should be the same as that of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. On expiry of its term, however, it should continue to carry out its functions till the President forms a new Constitutional Tribunal.

Regarding the Constitutional Tribunal, the following point should be adopted as a detailed basic principle.

(15)The term of the Constitutional Tribunal is five years, the same as that of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. However, the ongoing Constitutional Tribunal, on expiry of its term, shall continue to carry out its functions till the President forms a new Constitutional Tribunal under this Constitution.

In connection with the appointment of a member to the Constitutional Tribunal, the following points should be adopted as detailed basic principles.

(a) shall be deemed to have resigned from the Hluttaw concerned on the date of being appointed if he is a member of any Hluttaw.

(b) shall be deemed to have resigned from civil service in accord with civil service rules and regulations on the date of being appointed if he is a government employee.

(c) shall have no right to participate in activities of the political party concerned during tenure of membership starting from the date of being appointed if he is a member of a political party.

(17) A member of the Constitutional Tribunal may have the right to submit his resignation to the President if he wishes to resign before expiry of his tenure for a certain a reason.

(18) The President may appoint a new member in accord with the provisions of this Constitution if there is a vacancy in membership in the Constitutional Tribunal for a certain reason.

A member of the Constitutional Tribunal should possess such qualifications as loyalty to the State, adherence to the provisions of the Constitution, and good characters. If he fails to honour these requirements or violates any of these rules, he should be blamed or impeached under the provisions prescribed in this Constitution. As regards the matter, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(19) (i) A member of the Constitutional Tribunal can be blamed or impeached under any of the following reasons:

(d) incapability of discharging duties prescribed in the State Constitution for a member of the Constitutional Tribunal.

(ii) If need arises to blame or impeach a member of the Constitutional Tribunal, it shall do so under the provisions prescribed in this Constitution set to blame or impeach the Union Chief-Justice or a Union Supreme Court Judge.

The detailed basic principles on the Constitutional Tribunal have been laid down.

Thus, regarding functions of the Constitutional Tribunal, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(b). to scrutinize whether or not laws enacted by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the Region Hluttaws and the State Hluttaws and functions of executive authorities of Pyidaungsu, Regions; States and Self-Administered Areas are in conformity with the State Constitution;

(c). to scrutinize functions of executive authorities of Pyidaungsu, Regions, States and Self-Administered Areas are in conformity with the State Constitution;

(d). to decide on disputes in connection with the State Constitution between Pyidaungsu and Regions, between Pyidaungsu and States, between Regions and States, among Regions, among States, and between Regions or States and Self-Administered Areas and among Self-Administered Areas themselves to perform other duties prescribed in the State Constitution;

(e). to decide on disputes in connection with the rights and responsibilities of the Pyidaungsu and Regions; or States or Self-Administered Areas in implementing Union law by Regions, States or Self-Administered Areas;

(f). to scrutinize and decide on matters relating to Union territories informed by the President,

The courts have to hear criminal cases and civil law cases in accord with the existing laws. As regards a dispute as to whether the provision of a law is in conformity with the Constitution in a case being heard by a court, the following detailed basic principles should be adopted.

21. If there is a dispute as to whether a provision prescribed in a law is in conformity with the Constitution in hearing a case by a court, and the Constitutional Tribunal has not made any decision regarding the case, the court shall suspend its hearing and submit its views to the Constitutional Tribunal in accord with the procedures for its decision. The decision of the Constitutional Tribunal regarding the dispute shall apply all the cases.

The Constitutional Tribunal is responsible for interpreting the provisions of the State Constitution. In connection with the matter, the following detailed basic principles should be adopted.

We would like to suggest that the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(23) The following persons shall have the right to directly submit a case to the Constitutional Tribunal for its interpretation, decision, and stance:

(24). The following persons or bodies shall have the right to submit a case to the Constitutional Tribunal in accord with the procedures for its interpretation, decision and stance:

The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw will have to prescribe necessary laws for formation of the Constitutional Tribunal, relations with other organizations, and responsibilities, rights and privileges of the Constitutional Tribunal.

Hence, concerning the designation of the chairman and members of the Constitutional Tribunal to prescribe necessary law for the Constitutional Tribunal, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(25). Formation and relations of the Constitutional Tribunal, and duties, rights and privileges of the chairman and members of the Constitutional Tribunal shall be prescribed by law.

(26). The role of the chairman of the Constitutional Tribunal is designated to be equivalent to the position of a Vice-President, and a member, to the position of a Union minister in order to make reference in prescribing by law regarding the duties, rights and privileges of the chairman and members of the Constitutional Tribunal.

The clarification made by the Work Committee Chairman at the plenary session of the National Convention held from 10 to 13 November concerning the facts of the chapter General Provisions are realistic, suitable and comprehensive. We have no separate suggestions concerning the chapter. We are in support of adopting the 26 detailed basic principles of the chapter as explained by the Work Committee Chairman.

We the delegate group of State service personnel have presented suggestions on the chapters Amendment of the Constitution, State Flag, State Seal, National Anthem, the Capital, Transitory Provisions and General Provisions that will serve the interest of the nation and the people after holding discussions on the chapters in detail. The panel of chairmen after studying them sought the approval of the National Convention delegates. With this I conclude the collective proposal of the delegate group of State service personnel.

Existing rules, regulations, bye-laws, notifications, orders, directives and procedures shall remain in force in so far as they are not contrary to this Constitution until and unless they are repealed or amended by the Union Government

Yangon, 2 Jan - The following is a translation of proposals on laying down detailed basic principles for chapter General Provisions to be included in drafting the State Constitution presented by the Delegate Group of Other Invited Persons at the Plenary Session of the National Convention held at Pyidaungsu Hall of Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division, on 29-12-2006.

I wish you all Mr Chairman and members of the panel of chairmen, the Chairman of National Convention Convening Commission and members, the Chairman of National Convention Convening Work Committee and members, the Chairman of National Convention Convening Management Committee and members and National Convention delegates health and happiness.

I am U Lwe Zi Kyaw Kyaw, a National Convention delegate of the delegate group of other invited persons of KNPP (Hoya).

Thanks to the suggestions, coordination and consultations of the delegates, of the 15 Chapter Headings laid down by the National Convention, eight have been adopted.

The delegate groups presented suggestion in connection with the three chapters at the plenary session of the National Convention held from 27 November 2006 to 7 December 2006.

The delegate groups have been presenting suggestions on the last four chapters beginning 21 December this year. Today, we of the delegate group of other invited persons will present our proposal paper.

The group held a meeting on 23 November 2006 and assigned a 25-member group the duty to compile a proposal paper.

After holding meetings for four times, the 25-member group compiled a proposal paper comprising proper and standard suggestions.

As for the 24 national races groups of the special regions included in our group of other invited persons, they assume that they have reached the ultimate success of their cooperation with the Tatmadaw. The future journey of the nation is straight and pleasant and it is full of peace, stability, development and cooperation.

The 15 persons who are invited individually feel great pleasure as they are able to render effective assistance to the group.

I will now discuss the chapter Amendment of the Constitution explained by the Work Committee Chairman at the plenary session of the National Convention held on 10 November 2006.

There may arise a need to amend the Constitution after its promulgation. Necessary detailed basic principles should be adopted after studying the constitutions of some world nations and the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution of Myanmar.

If there arises a matter to amend the Constitution, the method of amendment should be designated. The method is that every proposal for an amendment should be in the form of a Bill, and that the Bill should contain no other proposals.

As regards the matter, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

If there is wish to amend anyone of the provisions of this Constitution, the following methods shall be applied:

(a) The proposal to amend the Constitution shall be submitted in the form of a Bill.

The proposal to amend the Constitution shall be submitted in the form of a Bill. There should be a prescription mentioning the Hluttaw where the bill must be initiated.

The new Constitution will have two Hluttaws the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw. The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw comprises the said two Hluttaws. Only the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw will draft bills and promulgate laws.

Concerning the matter, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

The 1947 Constitution prescribed, After it has been passed by each of the Chambers of Parliament, the Bill shall be considered by both Chambers in joint sitting. The Bill can be submitted only to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw should consider discussing the Bill only if 20 per cent of all the members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw submit it. Hence, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall accept the Bill to amend the Constitution for consideration, if 20 per cent of all the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw members submit it.

However good and comprehensive a constitution is, there may be constitutional amendments because of the advancing time and situation. Arrangements should be made in advance for the constitutional amendments. Necessary prescriptions should be stipulated in the Constitution. The prescription of the percentages of MPs needed in amending a specific article and a specific clause will prevent the authorities from making amendments at will and unnecessary amendments.

In connection with the matter, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

(a) The adopted provisions of the State Fundamental Principles, the State Structure, the Formation of Legislature, the Formation of Executive, the Formation of Judiciary, and the State of Emergency shall be amended with the prior approval of more than 75 per cent of all the members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, in a nation-wide referendum only with a majority vote of more than half of those who have the right to vote.

(b) Provisions other than those mentioned in the paragraph (a) shall be amended only with a majority vote of more than 75 per cent of all the members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

(c) Articles that are concerned with or inclusive in Chapters stated in the paragraph (a) shall be prescribed when drafting the Constitution.

I will now give suggestions on the chapter State Flag, State Seal, National Anthem, the Capital explained by the Work Committee Chairman at the plenary session of the National Convention held on 10 November 2006.

His explanations include the procedures and rules in connection with the State Flag and punishments for offences are prescribed in the separate law.

The colours used according to both the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution were red, white and blue. We have constantly believed that red stands for courage and decisiveness, white for purity and blue for peace, tranquillity and stability.

The Union of Myanmar has been striving to develop her economy, with agriculture as the base. As Myanmar is an agro-based nation, the colour green that stands for peace and tranquillity and lush and verdant environment should be used. Moreover, red, which means valour and decisiveness, should also be portrayed. The Flag should be marked with green, yellow and red stripes in a proportionate ratio. On the left end of the green stripe at the top should be a big white star directing upwards.

The three-colour flag comprising green, yellow and red stripes in a proportionate ratio is not unfamiliar with Myanmar. The colours were used by the organizations and the Tatmadaw that took part in the independence struggle.

The Burma Independence Army BIA used four flags during the time from 27-12-1941 to 26-4-1942 and the third and fourth ones were three-colour flags comprising green, yellow and red stripes in a proportionate ratio and a picture of peacock in a circle marked in the centre of the flags.

The Burma Defence Amy BDA used two flags during the period from 27-4-1942 to 26-3-1945 and one of them was a three-colour flag comprising green, yellow and red stripes in a proportionate ratio and a picture of peacock in a circle marked in the centre of the flag. The flag was used till the start of the Anti-Fascist Resistance on 27 March 1945.

The colour of the flag used by Patriotic Burmese Forces during the Anti-Fascist Resistance was red with a white star directing upwards at the top left corner of it.

Hence, the Myanmar people loved the colours, yellow, green and red during the post-independent period. Today's people always adore the said three-colour flags as a historic symbols of the nation.

The on-going National Convention is as important as the lifeblood for the nation. The National Convention has been laying down basic principles. The new constitution that will emergence in accord with the era will be in harmony with the new three-colour flag.

The Flag is marked with green, yellow and red stripes in a proportionate ratio. On the left end of the green stripe at the top of the Flag is a large white star hoisting upwards.

Concerning the State, the National Convention has adopted the fundamental principles sovereign power of the State is derived from the citizens and is in force in the whole country and the State shall be known as the Pyidaungsu Thamada Myanmar Naing-Ngan Daw (the Union of the Republic of Myanmar) Hence, the State Seal should include the map of the Union of Myanmar.

In accord with the adopted fundamental principle the State shall be known as the Pyidaungsu Thamada Myanmar Naing-Ngan Daw, the words Pyidaungsu Thamada Myanmar Naing-Ngan Daw should be included in the State Seal.

The white star that is the symbol of the anti-colonialist and anti-Fascist struggles launched with the people's strength should also be included in it. The Seal should be decorated with the picture of the lion king used as a tradition in the State seals of the Union Myanmar, and Myanmar traditional floral arabesque.

In the 1947 Constitution there is no provision concerning the State Seal. But when we studied the then State Seal we found that the words Pyidaungsu Thamada Myanmar Naing-Ngan Daw were written at its foot and it had three portraits of a lion king one facing left, another facing right and the other facing front.

At the centre were the map of Myanmar together with the maps of some neighbours. In the double circles were the Pali wards Samagganam Taposukho meaning unity is a noble joy and prosperity. The circles were decorated with Myanmar traditional floral arabesque.

The 1947 Constitution showed the picture of the State seal and stated, The State Seal shall be as shown below. The Seal has been used till now. A significant point is that the words included in the State Seal from 1974 to 1988 were Pyidaungsu Socialist Thamada Myanmar Naing-Ngan Daw (The Union of the Socialist Republic of Burma) and the words included in it after 1988 during the time of the Tatmadaw government are Pyidaungsu Myanmar Naing-Ngan Daw (The Union of Myanmar).

The nation's map should be portrayed at the centre the future State Seal for it to have broader and deeper essence, and to look attractive and impressive. Hence the following detailed basic principle should be adopted with the picture of the State Seal under it.

The present Anthem has been used for over half a century. One of the fundamental principles adopted by the National Convention is further burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality. The present National Anthem also depicts the sincere policy justice, freedom and equality.

The present National Anthem depicts the task of safeguarding the Union that we have inherited from our forefathers, at the risk of our lives, and serving the interest of the Union in harmony and unison.

The song also calls for all the national races to harmoniously strive for national development and that is the duty of all citizens.

The verses of the song we have used for many years are in conformity with the fundamental principles the National Convention has adopted. Hence, the following detailed basic principle should be adopted.

The capitals of most of the nations are located at the centre of the country. Every country designates the city that is the seat of the government as the capital. Mostly, a city located in a place that is lying in the nation's hub and that is easy to access is prescribed as the capital.

The nation has already built the capital Nay Pyi Taw, in the region located in the central part of the country to further enhance national unity and facilitate transport with all the states and divisions.

Now all the government institutions are carrying out their normal functions at their head offices set up in Nay Pyi Taw. Hence, Nay Pyi Taw where all the government institutions have established headquarters, should be prescribed as the nation's capital.

U Saw Hla Tun of ChaungU Township, Sagaing Division, will continue to present the paper.

I am U Saw Hla Tun of the delegate group of other invited persons from ChaungU Township in Sagaing Division.

The Work Committee chairman presented the points for the Chapter Transitory Provisions at the plenary session of the National Convention held on 13 November 2006.

Regarding the coming into force of the State Constitution, he called for advice and suggestions of the delegates to decide whether or not the point:

This Constitution shall come into force throughout the Union after its adoption in a nationwide referendum by more than half of all the people who have the right to vote.

Now, the seven-step Road Map is in the process of being implemented, and under the fourth step, the State constitution will be approved through a referendum in accordance to the detailed basic principles to be adopted unanimously by the National Convention.

In the process, seeking the approval of the people, approving the State Constitution by the votes of more than half of all the people who have the right to vote, coming into force of the State Constitution throughout the Union after its adoption in a referendum, that points conform with the constitutions of many other countries as well as the 1947 constitution and 1974 constitution of our nation. So, these points should be adopted as detailed basic principles.

Here, I would make a suggestion that the word votes should be replaced with the expression assenting votes because it can also be assumed as votes against, or abstentions.

This Constitution shall come into force throughout the Union after its adoption in a referendum by the assenting votes of more than half of all the people who have the right to vote.

In his explanation, with respect to ensuring continuous exercise of State sovereignty during the interval between the coming into force of this Constitution and the day the first session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw is convened, the Work Committee chairman called for advice and suggestions to decide whether the point:

The State Peace and Development Council shall, continuing to exercise State sovereignty, carry out during the interval between the coming into force of this Constitution and the day the first session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw is convened, all the functions of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw under the Constitution. should be adopted as a detailed basic principle or not.

After the State Constitution comes into force, the State Peace and Development Council will have to hand over the power to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw that will emerge under the State Constitution. Hluttaws to be formed under the State Constitution will not emerge immediately, but only after Hluttaw members have been elected. The three sovereign powers of the State legislative, executive and judicial powers can be exercised continuously only if the State Peace and Development Council exercises the three sovereign powers during the transitional period between the adoption of the State Constitution and coming to being, of the Hluttaws and then hands them over. So, that point should be adopted as a detailed basic principle.

Respective Hluttaws will come into operation under the forthcoming State Constitution. Hluttaws to be formed under the State Constitution will emerge only after Hluttaw members have been elected.

So, the SPDC will have to take necessary measures according to the State Constitution to hold elections.

So, power should be vested in the State Peace and Development Council to carry out legislative functions on behalf of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw heretofore the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw comes into existence to ensure smooth operation of the tasks. Therefore, in order to ensure that the preparative measures are carried out in accordance with the State Constitution, the point:

The work done by the State Peace and Development Council to bring the Constitution into force shall be deemed to have been carried out in accord with this Constitution.

Regarding the devolving on the State's policy guidelines, laws, rules, regulations, notifications, proclamations, measures, responsibilities and rights, the Work Committee chairman called for advice and suggestions to decide whether the point:

All policy guidelines, laws, rules, regulations, notifications, proclamations, measures, responsibilities and rights of the State Peace and Development Council shall devolve on the Union of Myanmar

We consider that the basic foundations built to realize the State objectives, and the policy guidelines, laws, rules, regulations, orders, and proclamations issued to expedite all-round tasks for building a modern developed democratic nation by the SPDC are necessary actions in the interests of the nation and people. Therefore, we support the adoption of the detailed basic principle All measures, responsibilities and rights of the State Peace and Development Council shall be devolved on the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw that will come into being under the State Constitution.

Regarding the existing laws, called for advice and suggestions to decide whether the point:

Existing laws shall remain in force in so far as they are not contrary to this Constitution until and unless they are repealed or amended by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

Before a new Constitution comes into operation, the existing laws continue to be in force in a nation. After the new Constitution comes into operation, without prejudice to the new Constitution, the existing laws are to remain in force. And any existing laws contrary to the Constitution are to be amended or repealed from time to time by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

If the existing laws and rules are no longer inconsistent with the State Constitution, the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw will have to repeal or amend them. Therefore, regarding the existing laws, that point should be adopted as a detailed basic principle.

Before a new Constitution comes into force, there have been predominant rules, regulations, bye-laws, notifications, orders, directives and procedures in a country.

After the new Constitution comes into operation, these existing rules, regulations, bye-laws, notifications, orders, directives and procedures are to remain in force if they are not contrary to the new Constitution, and to be annulled if they are contrary to the new Constitution.

Regarding the cases pending in courts at all levels on the date on which the Constitution comes into operation, he called for advice and suggestions to decide whether or not the point:

All courts existing on the date of the coming into operation of this Constitution shall continue to exercise their jurisdiction until new courts are established by law in accord with this Constitution. All cases, civil, criminal and revenue, pending in the said courts, shall be disposed of in accord with the laws exercised on the date on which the cases came up for trial.

After a Constitution comes into force, it is needed to take steps such as judicial formation or establishment of courts at different levels, and devolving of jurisdiction and powers to the courts at all levels in accord with the Constitution. So, jurisdiction should be devolved upon all courts existing on the date of the coming into operation of the Constitution until new courts have been established by the law in accord with the Constitution. So, this point should be adopted as a detailed basic principle.

And regarding State service personnel, he called for advice and suggestions to decide whether or not the point:

All functioning State service personnel of departmental organizations including Tatmadaw under the State Peace and Development Council on the day this Constitution comes into force shall continue in their functions unless otherwise prescribed by the Government of the Union of Myanmar

All functioning administrative bodies or ministries and service personnel are to continue in their functions. It is also required to ensure regular attendance of the service personnel. So, the point should be adopted as a detailed basic principle.

At the plenary session held on 13 November 2006, the Work Committee chairman clarified the points that should be adopted as detailed basic principles for the Chapter General Provisions to be included in the State Constitution.

We members of the delegate group of other invited persons conducted a careful study of the 26 detailed basic principles included in the Work Committee chairman's clarification. His clarification includes

- one detailed basic principle that concerns that this Constitution is the basic law of laws of the State,

- two detailed basic principles, which have been adopted by the National Convention, that the two detailed basic principles should be shifted to another para,

- one detailed basic principle that this Constitution shall be based only on Myanmar text,

- one detailed basic principle that concerns interpretation of the expressions of this Constitution,

- one detailed basic principle that a Myanmar manuscript of this Constitution shall be kept at the National Archives, and the manuscript shall be conclusive evidence of the provisions of this Constitution,

- one detailed basic principle that in the interest of the State, the Union Government may permit Region or State government, a cooperative society or a person to run any of economic enterprises, which are prescribed to be operated solely by the Union Government, through a joint-venture system with the Union Government or under agreements,

- one detailed basic principle that he Union of Myanmar shall honour all legitimate obligations arising out of any treaties or agreements which before the coming into force of this Constitution were in force between the Government of Myanmar and the Government of any other State, provided that such other State honours any reciprocal obligations towards the Union of Myanmar,

- one detailed basic principle that the Union of Republic of Myanmar may sue and may be sued by the name of the Union of Republic of Myanmar,

- five detailed basic principles that concern formation of a Constitutional Tribunal, appointment of its members, assigning duties to them, and designating the qualifications to be possessed by the members,

- one detailed basic principle that concerns the term of the Constitutional Tribunal,

- three detailed basic principles that concern appointment and resignation of a member of the Constitutional Tribunal and filling a vacant seat with a new member,

- one detailed basic principle that concerns impeachment of a member of the Constitutional Tribunal,

- one detailed basic principle that concerns the functions of the Constitutional Tribunal,

- two detailed basic principles that concern a dispute over the point that a provision prescribed in a law is in conformity with the Constitution in hearing a case by a court,

- two detailed basic principles that concern a case to seek interpretation, decision, and stance from the Constitutional Tribunal,

- two detailed basic principles that concern the designation of the roles of the chairman and members of the Constitutional Tribunal.

These facts should be mentioned in the State Constitution. So, they should be adopted as detailed basic principles.

That is all for our proposal. Now, the National Convention is over. And we delegates have made suggestions about the chapters, so the State Constitution has taken its shape.

Now, various forms of advice have been collected from the delegates for adoption of the detailed basic principles for the State Constitution, to which the entire national people including National Convention delegates aspire and that can guarantee a brighter future of the nation.

We members of the delegate group of other invited persons are very pleased with our advice and suggestions.

Today's plenary session will be over as soon as we have read out our proposal. That is indeed the sign of successful completion of the National Convention.

Member of USDA Secretariat Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan meets secretaries and executives

Yangon, 2 Jan - Member of Secretariat of Union Solidarity and Development Association In Charge of Mingala Taungnyunt and Pazun-daung Township UDSAs Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan this morning met with secretaries and executives of the Township USDAs at the Mingala Taungnyunt USDA's Office and gave necessary instructions.

The secretaries of the Township USDAs reported to the minister on public welfare tasks and organizational measures carried out in the townships.

After hearing the reports, the minister gave instructions, saying that the USDA members are to serve the interest of the State, the association and their own balancing personal interest and welfare of others; that the secretaries are to engage in organizational tasks, regional development tasks and tasks for opening of summer courses. The minister also explained the prevailing situations of the State, condition of internal and external opposition groups, people's desires, measures being taken by the government and tasks should be carried out by the USDA members. Afterwards, the minister presented K 220,000 for organizational tasks of Pazundaung Township USDA and K 270,000 for organizational tasks of Mingala Taungnyunt Township USDA through the secretaries.

Zaw Zaw Latt, Bo Bo Aung take leads in Myanmar PGA and MGF President's Cup Golf Tournament

Yangon, 2 Jan Organized by Myanmar PGA and Myanmar Golf Federation, Zaw Zaw Latt in professional level and Bo Bo Aung in amateur level are taking their leads in Myanmar PGA and MGF President's Cup Golf Tournament held at Hanthawaddy Golf and Country Club in Bago this morning.

During the opening ceremony, the golfers took their positions at tee No 10. Next, President Maj-Gen Win Hlaing (Retd) of Myanmar PGA and MGF and Director Lt-Col Lay Myint (Retd) of Hanthawaddy Golf and Country Club formally opened the first round event.

After the first round, Zaw Zaw Latt is taking the lead with 71 strokes in the professional level, trailed by Thein Zaw Myint (KM Golf Centre) with 72 strokes, and Than Naing (Srixon), Aye Lwin (Srixon) and Soe Kyaw Naing (Srixon) with 73 strokes each.

In the amateur level, Bo Bo Aung is staying ahead with 71 strokes kept close by Aung Win with 73 strokes, and Tun Tun and Tun Tun (Honima) with 74 strokes each.

The main sponsor is Han Event Management and co-sponsors, KM Golf Centre, Srixon, Point Golf Shop, Yamato Golf Shop, Grand Royal Special Reserve Whisky, Imperial Jade Purified Drinking Water and Golf World Trophy and Golf Accessories.

Myanmar hands over Chinese prisoners to PRC in view of bilateral goodwill relations

Nay Pyi Taw, 2 Jan - In view of Sino-Myanmar goodwill relations, Myanmar handed over 31 Chinese citizens serving prison terms in the country to the People's Republic of China.

At the request of PRC, police members of the two nations signed the document to hand over 30 male Chinese prisoners and one female Chinese prisoner to the PRC, with charges against them still in hand.

After the immi-gration officials of the two nations singed the agreement, two Chinese prisoners, who have already been granted amnesty, were sent back to PRC in accord with the procedures.

The transfer of the Chinese prisoners took place at Kyaigaung border gate in Muse Township at 11:35 am on 30 December 2006.

In view of the bilateral cordial relations, Myanmar handed over 86 male and female Chinese prisoners to PRC on 27 May 2006, 96 on 7 June, 427 on 17 June, and 69 on 16 August totalling 678.

Yangon, 2 Jan Myanmar Women's Affairs Federation accepted 1,000 membership applications from Yinmabin, Pale and Salingyi Townships in Monywa District on 29 December.

On behalf of the applicants, Chairperson of Sagaing Division Women's Affairs Organization Daw Mya Myint Thu presented 1,000 membership applications including those of trainees of course No 4/2006 of the Vocational Training School to Head of the Organizing Department of MWAF Dr Daw Nyunt Nyunt Oo at Women Vocational Training School in Yinmabin Township on 29 December.

Dr Daw Nyunt Nyunt Oo briefed on MWAF and presented membership cards and badges to new members through the principal of the Vocational Training School.

After the ceremony, Dr Daw Nyunt Nyunt Oo and party went to People's Hospital in Yinmabin and presented cash assistance and gifts to a mother who delivered triplets.

Minister attends opening ceremony of Theravada Buddhist Missionary Course for Monks

Yangon, 1 Jan - Organized by Department for Promotion and Propagation of the Sasana under the Ministry of Religious Affairs, a ceremony to open Theravada Buddhist Missionary Course No 17 for Monks and Basic Health Care Educative Course No 8 was held at State Pariyatti Sasana University (Yangon) on Kaba Aye Hill this morning.

It was attended by Vice-Chairman of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamajotika Saya-daw Bhaddanta Paññindabhivamsa and member Sayadaws, Chairman of Theravada Buddhist Mission Ovadacariya Sayadaws Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamajotika Bhaddanta Kunta-labhivamsa and instructor Sayadaws, monks, Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung, Director-General of DPPS Dr Myo Myint, Pro-rector (Admin) Dr Myint Kyi of International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University and departmental heads and course instructors of Traditional Medicine Department. First, the congregation received the Nine Precepts from Vice-Chairman of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Ratha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamajotika Sayadaw Bhaddanta Paññindabhivamsa.

Next, the minister supplicated on religious affairs and offered alms to Sayadaws. Afterwards, the congregation shared merits gained.

Yangon, 1 Jan - The Yangon Media Group held its annual dinner at Excel Treasure Tower in Bahan Township today.

It was attended by officials of departments and enterprises under the Ministry of Information, chief-editors of dailies, journalists and guests.

At the dinner, outstanding staff and journalists of Yangon Media Group were awarded.

The group will bring out The Yangon Times, a weekly journal, in a new format with 36 pages starting from 3 January 2007.

Chief Executive Officer of Yangon Media Group U Ko Ko and Director-General of Department of Meteorology and Hydrology U Tun Lwin extended greetings.

Yangon, 2 Jan - Mass sporting activity for the fifth week of December took place in Taunggyi on 30 December.

Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen Thaung Aye and wife Daw Thin Myo Myo Aung, participated in the sporting activity along with military officers, departmental officials, townselders and others.

They gathered at Myoma Market in Taunggyi at 5.30 am and started to walk to Shan State's Sports Ground. They also did physical exercises in the sports ground.